Key Interior Design Trends for 2026
You can’t reinvent your home every time a new trend comes around, but taking a look at what’s poised to influence interior design in the new year can offer some much-needed inspiration. This is especially true if you’re updating or renovating a room. So hopefully our article will give you some fresh ideas and a way to update your home in line with what interior designers are promoting for 2026. For example, The Pantone Colour Institute, recognized globally as the leading source of colour expertise by designers, retailers and manufacturers alike, recently announced PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as its Colour of 2026. This colour has a softer mineral tone than the stark whites and cool greys previously fashionable.
Warm Minimalism
Other colours such as clay,terracotta, sage green and dusty blues are also highlighted to work with a trend being described as “Warm Minimalism”. A look that carries the same principles of clean lines and subtle décor as its predecessor but with a more personal twist that feels practical for day-to-day life. This trend sees softer forms of furniture favouring curves and gentler edges rather than rigid, boxy shapes. The aim is to create homes that although stylish have more of a comforting, lived-in feel. Combinining natural and organic materials such as wood and stone with textures like linen curtains and woven rugs to replace cold minimalism for a warmer take. .
Natural Wood
Wood is now being seen used to beautiful effect in kitchens, especially when paired with other natural materials like stone and marble,creating a warmer, more inviting feel. Patrick Williams of “Berdoulat” creates bespoke kitchens from oak, Douglas fir and walnut, finishing each piece differently with a process he terms “living finish” so as to look better with use and age. He suggests using unique furniture with pleasing proportions “in a way that feels as though it has come together organically, over time.”
You don’t need to stop at the kitchen though as darker wood tones are becoming popular throughout the home. Kelly McGrath of Studio McGrath says “Darker-toned woods are making their return after many years of paler varieties.Think reclaimed and well-worn wood, because as minimalism begins to fall out of style, homeowners will spend more time combing for vintage pieces and rare collectibles”. Auctions for example can be a rich source for antique textiles, you can also consider hanging. A decorative rug, scarf or vintage fabric can look beautiful in a frame, but without glass so you can fully appreciate the texture. Also large mirrors whilst still useful for adding light and depth to a space could be changed up with a frame that has a more aged feel.
Outdoor Living Rooms
Outdoor spaces continue to be an area that many choose to develop as a family space. They are becoming rooms in their own right, looking more like an interior space than an exterior one. Seating has become more plush, with the addition of outdoor rugs and smart lighting and outdoor entertainment features, such as TVs make the most of these areas. You might consider this area for an “occasional” sofa. According to Jodie Hazlewood, founder of The House Upstairs, whose bespoke ottomans, chairs and banquettes are currently all over Instagram, it’s the piece of furniture to have in 2026. Unlike the dependable sofa you sink into for movie nights, the occasional sofa is a non-essential delight, and might also be placed in a hallway, kitchen or bedroom.
Freestanding showers
Freestanding showers can create a visual focus in the room, while also allowing for more flexible bathroom layouts.“When incorporating a freestanding shower, we consider scale, finish and its relationship to the surrounding elements,” says Becca Dent, studio lead at Sims Hilditch “They perform especially well in rooms with generous natural light or higher ceilings, and in spaces where you want to keep key features, like timber floors open and visible.”
Maximalism and Experimentation
